Spanish Chain Lands at SFO

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The fast-growing specialty-apparel brand Mango has opened its first U.S. airport store, at San Francisco International Airport (SFO). The 1,150-sq.-ft. MNG by Mango—the banner under which the Barcelona-based Mango operates its U.S. locations—offers an edited mix of women’s fashions and accessories in a contemporary space. Both the product and price points mirror Mango’s streetside stores (of which there are two in downtown San Francisco).

“There is a synergy between the locations, which is what we look for in bringing a brand to an airport,” said Joan Ryzner, senior VP of retail, HMSHost, which has an exclusive licensing agreement with the chain to operate its U.S. airport locations.

According to Ryzner, U.S. airports lag behind their European counterparts when it comes to adding full-fledged, fashion-apparel branded stores to their mix. But that’s changing, she added, and HMSHost plans to roll out Mango’s airport concept as facilities become available.

As for Mango, travel retail is just one component of its expansion strategy. With some 1,100 stores in 89 countries, it is looking to double its store count to 2,000 by 2012, with expansion focused on China, Russia and the United States. It also is looking to grow its airport portfolio from its current eight locations.